'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.'
- author Jackie French

Thursday, 5 September 2019

Review: You Might Find Yourself

You Might Find Yourself is a book that will open up discussion between adults and children, in homes and classrooms, about empathy, tolerance, compassion and a life full of possibility. In this stunning handcrafted book of collage illustrations, we follow a child’s journey of exploration and observance. 

The covers reflect the content. End pages are thought-provoking metaphors for the mazes we must find our way through in life. The text is presented in a gentle, non-didactic form and through the extraordinary and stunning artwork, reflects the challenges and choices people encounter on their journey.

This book is directed at creating environmental awareness, learning about our past and the lessons it has for us, and living a life of discovery by encouraging imagination when looking toward the future.

I loved that it spoke indirectly of issues such as kindness, individuality, imagining yourself in another person’s place, being kind to neighbours, and respecting tradition and sacred places.

Extra things to Think and Do. Ways to use your imagination to make the world better. The story winds up with this. On the last double spread, 15 separate paragraphs under various headings summarise the whole book. But this is not the end, for these 15 blocks encourage thought and analysis, research and collaboration with others. And on it goes.

A note from the author will put all that the book contains into perspective. I found every page full of beauty and optimism; hope and possibility. It’s outstanding layout and design enhance the meaningful text. Adults and children will draw on so many themes from this valuable book.

 Title: You Might Find Yourself
Author/Illustrator: Tai Snaith
Publisher: Thames & Hudson, $24.99
Publication Date: August 2019
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781760760335
For ages: 3 - 6